Are Developing Countries Ready to Tackle the Health Problems of Older People?

(October 2007) As more people in developing countries reach 60 and beyond—having made it safely past the threat of infectious disease, malnutrition, and pregnancy or childbirth-related complications—many countries will face new challenges. A top priority: How will they fight the chronic diseases and conditions that older people tend to succumb to? Are developing countries equipped to care for the elderly patients with non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer? Experts believe they are woefully unprepared. To learn more, go to www.dcp2.org/features/56.

The Disease Control Priorities Project (DCPP) is an ongoing effort to assess disease control priorities and produce evidence-based analysis and resource materials to inform health policymaking in developing countries. DCPP has produced three volumes providing technical resources that can assist developing countries in improving their health systems and ultimately, the health of their people.